They Fled Pekon – IDPs Flowing into Karenni State as Fighting in Southern Shan State Intensifies

Antonio Graceffo

During the first week of August, 42 IDPs arrived at the Catholic church in Mese, fleeing the fighting in Pekon in Karenni State. They told the priest, Father Alfonso, that at least 500–700 more were on their way, with priests escorting the elderly, the wounded, and those unable to walk on their own.

The group was composed mostly of women, men in their fifties, and small children. Some wore traditional dress, but all looked hungry and exhausted after their harrowing ordeal.

“We left because of the military,” said a woman named Antonia, her children clinging to her legs while she cradled a baby in a sling across her chest. A man named Paulu added, “We couldn’t stay anymore. We’re very likely to be tortured or killed if we get caught by the junta.

And the young men will be conscripted.” He explained that the group had already been on the road for a long time. Apart from their children, the only things they were able to bring were the clothes on their backs and a small cloth bag.